Star reader offers to give mother new outfit

The story in Thursday's paper touched one reader's heart so much she decided to do something about it.

Jackie Bridges

The story in Thursday's paper touched one reader's heart so much she decided to do something about it.

Featured was a family of three, who received help for Christmas from the Salvation Army. Mom is disabled and doing her best to pay the bills. Dad was just diagnosed with cancer, and the 12-year-old daughter is upset about the news. They are uncertain about the future and this may be their last Christmas together.

The Salvation Army gave food to the family and gifts for the daughter, but this Star reader, who wanted to remain anonymous, wanted to do something for the mother.

"I want to buy her a new outfit for Christmas," the reader said with tears in her eyes. "She needs something."

It's that kind of unselfish giving that has made it possible for The Salvation Army to provide more toys to families this year along with other extras.

The community has been generous, said Majs. David and Cherry Craddock.

Donations provided assistance for Christmas, but also made toys available Thursday to a family who lost their home in a fire. The money will also continue to help families who come in for assistance after the first of the year.

We are less than $7,000 away from our goal. Your gifts will brighten Christmas and the days ahead for families in need.

Empty Stocking Fund

Total as of Dec. 21: $28,164

Today's donations: $1,375

Anonymous, $50

Brenda and Eddie Howard, in honor of Henry Howard and all afflicted with Parkinson's disease, $50

Brenda and Eddie Howard, in memory of Rebecca M. Hampton, $50

Brenda and Eddie Howard, in memory of the victims of the Newtown, Conn., school shooting, $50

Brenda and Eddie Howard, in honor of Kelly H. Short and all breast cancer survivors, $50

Doyle and Linda Borders, in memory of Dixon and Ruth Borders and Earl and Oleen Clay, $50